Has sustainability science turned left?

As the urgent need for societies to steer towards sustainability is becoming increasingly apparent, sustainability science as a research community is facing difficult challenges successfully navigating the intensifying and often harsh political debates. An important line of conflict is (still) between the political left and right, although other conflicts are gaining increasing attention. As private corporations are stepping up their conservation agendas and non-governmental organizations are increasingly embracing market mechanisms to achieve healthier ecosystems, the scholarly community of sustainability science appears to be turning more to the political left. To navigate these entangled scientific and political landscapes, accomplishing constructive debates emphasizing the value of nurturing a broad spectra of viewpoints should be given higher priority in all forums where issues of sustainability are discussed.

Automated summary

As societies move towards sustainability, sustainability science faces challenges in navigating political debates. The conflicts between left and right continue to be a major issue, while other conflicts are also gaining attention. Scholars are leaning towards the political left, but it is important to encourage diverse viewpoints in discussions on sustainability.